Obi Toppin’s Shocked Reaction to Dunk Miss Reveals Unexpected Side of NBA Star

There’s something almost poetic about the way dreams of thunderous dunks can, at times, come crashing back down to earth—literally. Last Wednesday night, during the opening clash of the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Finals, Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppin soared with intent, gearing up to deliver one of those highlight-reel slams that make crowds erupt. But instead of glory, the ball’s clank against the rim turned his soaring promise into a gut-wrenching miss that you could almost feel rip through the screen. Watching Toppin’s stunned expression as the ball bounced off his fingertips was like peering into the heart of disappointment itself—one of those awkward, gut-punch moments all athletes dread, yet fans can’t help but empathize with. It’s brutal, it’s raw, and yes, it happens even on the brightest stages. You can almost hear the collective ugh from fans everywhere. But if you ask me, that’s the beauty of the game—trial, error, and the relentless pursuit to get it right next time. LEARN MORE

Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppin tried to throw down a commanding dunk during the first game of the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Finals on Wednesday night, but it didn’t go according to plan.The reaction on Toppin’s face just summed up so much of what it’s like to miss on a dunk in front of the entire world, and we shared in his pain watching this in slow motion. Oh, the agony! It happens, though.Toppin got air during the road game to open the conference finals and attempt a dunk, but he hit the corner of the rim and saw the ball ricochet off his hand for the brutal whiff.

You’ll get it next time!